McAfee, earlier known as Network Associates has one of the most popular antivirus programs in McAfee VirusScan. This software is for home as well as business / office use, whereas there is VirusScan Plus package for corporates. The VirusScan program was initially developed for Windows but another program has subsequently been developed for Mac computers.

• Installation– Installing is uncomplicated and does not take much time to transfer to the hard disk drive of the computer. System requirements are similar to that required by other competing software.
• Features and Ease of Use– The McAfee VirusScan Plus program has antispyware as well as outbound and inbound firewall protection features in addition to the standard antivirus program. There is a daily update of virus definitions and signatures. The ‘SiteAdvisor’ rates websites based on tests for spam, phishing and malware, while ‘X-Ray’ detects rootkits. Pop-up reminders for various actions appear randomly and cannot be disabled. There is on access file scanning and ‘SystemGuards’ checks computer activity for hacking and infections. All these features are also available on the McAfee VirusScan Enterprise, for bigger networked systems.
• PerformanceReviews – Overall McAfee VirusScan has received favourable reviews and its popularity proves its effectiveness. Scanning speed is reasonably fast and updates keep track of the latest virus and other threats. However, there have been concerns that the program sometimes fails to detect a few common viruses; this has been reported in independent studies and also by Virus Bulletin. CNET had reviewed VirusScan 2006 and found product performance deficiencies in 2 out of 3 tests. Consumers had also encountered technical difficulties while using this version of VirusScan. McAfee VirusScan has a reputation of using maximum CPU cycles to do its work; this is especially true of the earlier versions. Moreover, there is a tendency by the system to keep quarantining false positive files, even though the user knows they are clean and restores them
• Help and Support– Chat, email and limited telephone support is available, though many customers have complained that the support staff frequently cannot answer concerns and being very slow in coming back with the correct answers.
• Other Issues – Cost of the product is comparatively high; there could have been more value for money. There are no free basic antiviral services as is offered by some competitors. Memory requirement is on the higher side.

McAfee has a good reputation as a provider of popular and effective software that has more features than many of its competitors. It seems that while its research and development wing is pretty strong in coming out with new products and features, the back-up provided by customer service is woefully lacking. The follow–up regarding complaints and suggestions also does not seem up to the mark as some features criticised in earlier versions have not been modified in later ones. McAfee needs to gets its house in order and look into those aspects mentioned above and by other reviewers to regain top spot in the antivirus products it offers.

ESET is a Slovak company which developed the ‘NOD32’ antivirus package in the 1990s when computer viruses first started making things difficult. Being a very effective program with virus update definition number 4000 in April 2009, the software’s popularity rapidly spread from Eastern Europe to the rest of the world. Although not as prevalent as Norton and McAfee programs, it still ranks among the top 10. A bit of trivia – NOD is the Slovak acronym for ‘hospital at the edge of the disc’

• Installation– The time taken to install the software compares favourably with that taken by competitors. Moreover, networked NOD32 clients can update their systems using a central ‘mirror server’ on the network.
• Features and Ease of Use– There are two editions of the ESET NOD32 Antivirus system; ‘Home’ and ‘Business’. The latter has the ‘ESET Remote Administrator’, which permits server management and deployment, mirroring threat database updates and allows installation of Microsoft’s Windows Server systems. There is also an ESET Mobile Antivirus for Windows Mobile – used in most smartphones. This program protects the system from spyware, Trojans, worms, adware and other harmful software as also antispam to filter sms.
• Performance– Use of system resources is low mainly because the NOD32 program is written primarily in ‘assembly code’. This feature also helps in scanning files at a much faster speed than most competitors. The network update feature has been mentioned earlier. At 96%, it has the highest success rate of all the antivirus products tested by Virus Bulletin. The latest AV Comparative Tests results show NOD32 detected 93% on Set A and 96.6% on Set B, even with the most aggressive threat settings. CNet.com editors gave NOD32 a score of 4.5 out of 5, while PC Pro Magazine gave it their ‘Recommended’ award after being awarded 5 stars of a maximum 6. The NOD32 program is ICSA Labs certified. ESET’s other software ‘Smart Security 4.0’ (which is a more comprehensive package containing ESET’s own ‘SysInspector’ and “SysRescuer’ along with bidirectional firewalls, antispam, malware, etc) has also shown excellent results in comparative testing.
• Help and Support– As with other competitors, support is provided through email, chat and phone contact.
• Other Issues – The absence of any malware, antispam and firewall function on the NOD32 Antivirus platform is a drawback. Customer service could be better. Availability in many so called ‘major’ PC markets is extremely low, as is the branding and exposure. The ESET Uninstaller for ESET NOD32 has not been tested much to check for glitches.

In conclusion, the ESET NOD32 Antivirus program has been received well and with proper marketing can pose a big challenge to the more established brands. The software is good and ESET’s research and development wing seems to be working well. The company has been around for over 15 years and has kept up to date with its products. With a number of ‘recommended’ tags and awards from professional organisations and media publications, as well as excellent comparative performance results, ESET’s NOD32 Antivirus platform gets my thumbs up!

There are a number of versions of Symantec Corporation’s Norton Antivirus platform available in the market. This review is of the 16.0 Version 2009, which was released in September 2008, where more than 300 modifications were carried out on the format present in previous versions, to set at rest a number of performance concerns.

• Installation– Time taken to install the program has been vastly reduced from that taken by earlier versions and has been benchmarked at 47 seconds by Passmark Software Pty. Ltd.
• Features and Ease of Use– Tasks consuming system resources are carried out only when the computer is in idle mode by the new ‘Smart Scheduler’ feature, while the ‘Silent Mode’ allows the user to continue with his work on the computer while the Antivirus package does its work in the background, almost unnoticed.
• Performance– Virus scanning can be either ‘full system’ or ‘quick’. There is a new feature called ‘Norton Insight’ which isolates trusted (whitelisted) files that do not need to be scanned at all or very rarely. Using this feature can greatly reduce scan time to less than half what it would take for a full scan, which may take up to an hour or more, depending on how many files are scanned (i.e. used space). The new ‘Pulse Update’ feature constantly updates the computer with the latest protection against the latest viruses. The CPU utilisation and the program’s CPU usage are displayed on the CPU usage monitor while settings and security status display on a single main interface. There are savings in cost because of Norton’s recent provision for allowing free downloading of its latest and updated versions of the Antivirus programme, provided the subscription is current. Installation size of 127 to 150 MB disc space (on different versions of Windows packs) is comparatively good and memory usage is minimal, between 5 to just over 6 MB. While reboot and file conversion times were considerably less than any other competitor, application launch time was more than at least 3 others. The effectiveness of the program has been certified by the likes of ICSA Labs, Virus Bulletin, West Coast Labs and AV Comparatives.
• Help and Support– This is available through email, chat and limited phone support. There seems to be some improvement in the customer care provided by Norton over what had been experienced earlier. Email replies are usually within 24 hours.
• Other Issues – The absence of firewalls, antispam and other features is a let down. Another disappointment is that the program is good for only one installation, whereas Norton Internet Security can be used on 3 computers. Product support, un-installation procedure and faulty updates have been issues in past versions and it remains to be seen whether all the kinks have been sorted out in this one.

To conclude, the 2009 version of Norton Antivirus is the best yet and comes out on top of most competitors. However, it might be worth the wait for the 2010 version (17.0) with a number of updates including ‘SONAR 2’ and ‘Autospy’, which is ready for commercial release.

Called Virus Buster in Japan and PC-cillin in Australia, Trend Micro Internet Security, which combines antivirus features with a firewall, was developed by Trend Micro in the late 1990s. The earliest versions (PC-cillin 2000 and before) were exclusively antivirus programs, to which a firewall was initially added. The latest version, Trend Micro Internet Security 2009, has many more features.

• Installation– All the versions of PC-cillin can be installed with the greatest of ease and does not take much time.
• Features and Ease of Use– Trend Micro Internet Security 2008 has antispyware capability other than antivirus. Other features include email safety scan, rootkit protection, antispam, incoming and outgoing firewall, protection for the home network. The program authenticates websites and has proactive intrusion blocking. Parental control option is also available. The Pro version has the additional features of PC cleanup, keylogger protection, validation for wireless networks and a remote folder with file permissions control. There is also a feature which allows the user to restore settings. Trend Micro Internet Security 2008 also provides TrendSecure, which is an online, specialised service for transactions at public locations. This feature also protects files when a laptop or palm top is misplaced or irreparably damaged. It also provides a mobile phone antivirus program.
• PerformanceReviews – As compared to competitors, there have not been too many awards from major publications and independent testers and other organisations. However, most of these have tested the software and pronounced the standards adequate to good.
• Help and Support– Customer support in the form of email, phone and chat is minimal and not too much feedback is available to give a correct opinion. However, it can be said that to be more visible, Trend Micro need to be more active in this area.
• Other Issues – Trend Micro is providing support only to versions 2007 and after, so it would be extremely unwise not to purchase the latest version.

As compared to competitors, Trend Micro Internet Security is not a top of the mind product. To be more successful, a lot more marketing has to be done. Research and development also needs to be of the highest quality so that trends can be picked up early and appropriate updates given on a very frequent basis. So, although Trend Micro has a long history and been in the market with their products for over 10 years, it needs to be more visible. Increased competition, the economic downturn and an uncertain future for many companies and organisations – all these factors have to be considered when presenting the product to the market. Customers should perceive value for money very clearly – that would induce them to buy the software. If Trend Micro Internet Security can come up with the wherewithal to do this it should have a bright future in the days to come. So, let’s hope that it works out well for Trend Micro’s Internet Security version 2010! Everyone is stating that the tide is slowly turning as regards the worldwide recession, so things can only get better!

Norton Internet Security 2010 is a complete security suite and compatible Windows Seven, including antivirus, anti spyware, firewall, intelligent protection and digital identity.

norton-internet-security
Following on from the 2009 version, NIS 2010 has significantly less impact on the use of system resources (RAM and CPU). We feel that Symantec has decided to change the bad reputation that its products have long suffered at this level, not without reason.
This latest version incorporates significant innovations of the previous.

Symantec has concentrated its efforts on better protection of navigation based on new technology SONAR 2, designed to protect you in real time recent threats and / or unknown.
The result was also given a new anti-spam engine to protect your inbox from malicious emails.The main interface offers an overview of the various statutes security system and a simple click allows easy access to different functions of the program and all configuration settings for the PC, network and Web.
A "silent" mode (Silent Mode) allows you to disable the alerts often unwanted messages when you do not want to be interrupted during your work.
However, Norton Internet Security 2010 installs a toolbar rather intrusive in your browser, unfortunately necessary to take full protection features web following.
Apart from some minor flaws, Norton Internet Security 2010 remains a very good security suite provides all the tools and a complete protection of your machine.

Price from Amazon: $66.99 (1 user)
System Requirements:
OS: WinXP/Vista/7
Minimum:
Processor: 300 MHz
Memory: 256 MB
Available Space: 200 MB
Positive:

* Protection against the majority of online threats
* Options specific security for emails and browsing
* Mode "Silent" appreciable

Negative:

* Still fairly resource-intensive
* Installs a toolbar in the browser

Panda Antivirus for Netbook is a security software specially designed for ultra-portable with limited resources. Panda Antivirus 2010 9.00.00 for NetbooksIndispensable when you know that these machines can basically surf the Web, from which the main threats.For the netbook is not immunized against viruses, spyware, worms and other malware. Panda Antivirus for Netbooks can track suspicious files, threats and infected files into the smallest corners thanks to tools that have made the popularity of Panda Software.
You have an anti-virus software that protects you in real time and analyzes the files on the hard drive, those using instant messaging or email, but also by a simple Web browsing.Panda Antivirus for Netbooks allows you to schedule a scan in a timely program on a particular file or entire system. It also analyzes in depth the program code to detect possible threats, sometimes even unknown to its signature database. The areas of vulnerability are also screened.The integrated firewall is the first line of defense to pierce. However, it must be downloaded manually from the software interface for the acquisition.All actions are recorded in a report (log), it can be printed or stored in TXT format. A wide range of statistics is also available to analyze the best type of threats you face.Lightweight, discreet and easy to take in hand, Panda Antivirus for Netbooks is ideal for ultra-portable. A malicious program that could and must not, however, suffered a backup tool for going back in time.

OS: Windows XP
Minimum:
Processor: 300 MHz
Memory: 128 MB
Available Space: 256 MB
Internet Explorer 6.0
Recommended requirements:
Processor: 500 MHz
Memory: 512 MB
Publisher: www.pandasecurity.com

Pros:

* Low resources
* The same tools that Panda Antivirus Pro
* Statistics galore
* Scheduling scans

Cons:

* No backup function
* Firewall can be downloaded from the interface

To save your beloved PC safe from most threats, anti-virus alone is not sufficient. Following Panda Global Protection puts at your disposal several tools to protect from external attacks.

panda_securityThe sparse interface Panda Global Protection begins within reach of all users, from novice to more experienced. On the main window, you access the options of anti-virus, firewall, the anti-spam filter for your emails and two modules to monitor potential vulnerabilities in the PC and control the exchange of confidential data with the outside. Panda Global Protection prefers to cast a wide net.
Several types of system analysis are available. You can choose to sift through the entire computer hard drive, the contents of your e-mail or manually select the party to analyze the memory from a particular folder or a CD in the drive. Violators are liquidated or sent to quarantine.
Each action is stored in the event reports, threats, spyware, and hoax virus detected are found in the statistics that can cover the previous month but also refer to a particular date.
Panda Global Protection is also available an option to create backup CDs, just to keep your files secure. A Premium account on the publisher site keeps up to 2 GB of data on Panda's servers, and free for a year. In addition, Panda Global Protection allows d 'to optimize the system to make it faster. An option to cleaning and disk defragmentation is another valuable asset.
Panda Global Protection covers a wide range of threats that could infect your system, and overcomes effectively. Easy to take in hand, he can make himself indispensable.

Recent changes Panda Global Protection 2010:

* Consumes less resources
* Protects USB Infections
* Secures IM
* New detection of intruders

System Specifications:
30 days trial

Download links: Click Here

OS compatible with Panda Global Protection:
OS: WinXP / Vista
Processor: 300 MHz
Memory: 512 MB
Free space: 275 MB
Internet Explorer 6.0
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Pros:

* Several applications available
* System Optimization is very good.
* Help File is quite extensive.
* Planning scan option.
* Easy to take learn tool.

Cons

* Installation laborious
* Long update from the opening

Recognized as one of the best antivirus Currently, Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2010 you can work, communicate, play and surf the Web in excellent safety conditions.
This virus is regularly ranked among the first in testing to detect malware type virus, trojans, worms, etc.. It is also very efficient in the elimination of threats, the area where the virus usually hides.

kaspersky_anti_2010
Kaspersky approach based on three elements: an analysis by signature databases, heuristic analyzer and a blocker programs that behave suspiciously.
The software also benefits from automatic updates to its database of signatures several times per day which allows it to be extremely responsive to new viruses that you may be exposed. You can temporarily disable these updates and alerts when you switch to "Game".
Kaspersky analysis websites visited, emails and files in real time. The anti-virus automatically notifies you links to sites whose security is not guaranteed. Better: it disables all the links only to sites known to be dangerous.
Full, effective and always pointed side innovations, Kaspersky Anti-Virus is a reference for many years. This is not due to chance.
Recent changes Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2010:

* Reporting links lead to sites not secure
* Utilization of questionable websites in a protected environment
* Updates pending alerts

System Specifications:
30 days trial

Download links: Click Here

OS compatible with Kaspersky Anti-Virus:
OS: WinXP / Vista
Minimum:
Processor: 300 MHz
Memory: 256 MB
Free space: 50 MB
Internet Explorer 5.5
Microsoft Windows Installer 2.0
Active internet connection
Recommended requirements:
Processor: 800 MHz
Memory: 512 MB
Pros:
Easy to use
Effective in virus detection and removal
Cons:
Slow scan

Norton AntiVirus 2010 – Antivirus compatible with Windows 7
norton-internet-security
The most popular antivirus software Norton is back in a 2010 edition compatible Windows Seven and presented as quicker and more particularly pro-active against viruses, worms and Trojans.
This time, Norton seems to have finally taken into account the criticism it been a long time: a little lighter, faster to install and generally more reliable in detecting malware and disposal.
Norton Antivirus 2010 includes the new SONAR 2, designed to protect you in real time recent threats and / or unknown, and modules dedicated to the analysis of emails and downloads (Download Intelligence).
This new version is also equipped with a tool for analyzing system performance, so has an immediate glimpse of the impact of the virus on the use of CPU and RAM.
A "silent" mode (Silent Mode) allows you to disable the alerts often unwanted messages when you do not want to be interrupted during your work.
Another effort to provide the consumption of system resources too much, and Norton will return, perhaps in the odor of sanctity to specialize in computer security who was described as a pachyderm greedy and inefficient.
The interface of Norton Antivirus 2010, it has not undergone profound change since the last version. The main window provides an overview of the various statutes, and one click provides access only to security settings of the PC and network.
Norton Antivirus 2010 is a complete antivirus and efficiency with which the editor has partially corrected the flaws. This version supports Windows 7 is currently available only in English.

System Requirements:
OS: WinXP/Vista/7
Processor: 300 MHz
Memory: 256 MB
Available Space: 200 MB

Price from Amazon: $39.99 (1 user)

Positive:

* Easy to install
* SONAR 2 for better protection
* Protecting email
* Mode "Silent"

Negative:
Consumes a lot of resources

G DATA Antivirus mission is to protect your PC from virus attacks, Trojans and other intrusions of rootkits. It also protects you from phishing attempts (via fake sites or commercial bank) and infections carried by email.
Anti-virus G DATA is deemed as one of the best performing market, through the use of two independent scan engines. If your machine is a bit slow, you can always disable one but this is discouraged. Once the updates downloaded (after registration), the real-time protection is fully effective. Almost too much, as the number of conventional web pages that are blocked by default is important.
To you to mark trusted sites in the whitelist program and configure the firewall to suit your browsing habits.The complete analysis or records or files on demand are relatively lengthy and involve a lot of system resources. So expect a more laborious navigation for this scan.G Data is an anti-virus relatively complete and efficient, but it mobilizes considerable resources in its analysis.
OS: Win2000/XP
Minimum system Requirements:
Memory: 128 MB
Publisher:www.gdatasoftware.com

Pros:
Simple to use
Uses two independent motors
Real-Time Protection
Cons:
High consumption of resources